StJohnsCounty – Page 8

What’s Ahead at the February 20 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 18, 2024 by Beth Tate

There are no proclamations on the agenda found here: February 20 Agenda

Consent Agenda Items

A couple of items of interest:

Item 20 is a one-time funding agreement with the Florida State Park Foundation for reconstructing Fort Mose at Fort Mose Historic State Park for an amount not to exceed $200,000.

Item 21 is the appointment of 2 residents to the Mid-Anastasia Design Review Board. We usually see such appointments in the Regular Agenda, recently leading to much public comment.

Regular Agenda Items

Agenda Item 1 – Confirmation of Daniel Whitcraft as Facilities Management Director

Mr. Whitcraft was the finalist from over 100 applicants. He joins St. Johns County from Alachua County where he held a similar position.

Read the details here: Agenda Item 1

Agenda Item 2 – Presentation of the St. Johns County Surplus and OPEB Investment Portfolios

“The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Investment Policy, Section XVII Reporting, and OPEB Trust Investment Policy, Section XV, requires the Clerk, or designee, to prepare and submit a written report annually on all invested funds to the Board. Included in the report shall be a complete list of all invested funds, the name or type of security in which the funds are invested, the amount invested, the maturity date, earned income, the book value, the market value and the yield on each investment. PFM Asset Management, LLC, is the County’s investment advisor and has prepared the annual reports for the quarter ended September 30, 2023.”

The report can be found at this link: Agenda Item 2 – Investment Portfolios

Agenda Item 3 – Hastings Community Center & Library and New Southwest First Coast Technical College Campus

There is a lot of activity occurring in our Hastings community and this agenda item serves to arrange funding to facilitate several improvements in the area.

There will be 5 motions presented:

The first, authorizing the County Administrator to execute a funding assistance agreement by and between St. Johns County and the School Board of St. Johns County, FL for a capital distribution of a sub award of $7,614,108, from the American Rescue Plan Revenue Fund Budget.

The second, authorizing the Chair of the Board, on behalf of the County, to execute a County Deed conveying the old Hastings High School property to The School Board of St. Johns County, Florida.

The third, accepting the terms, provisions, conditions, and requirements of a Library Construction Grant Agreement between St. Johns County, Florida and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services; authorizing the County Administrator, or designee, to execute the Agreement on behalf of the County; and recognizing and appropriating the grant within the St. Johns County Fiscal Year 2024 Budget.

The fourth, authorizing and approving the HUD Contract for Loan Guarantee and Note in the principal amount of not to exceed $5,075,000 to finance the costs of the Hastings Community Center and Library Project; and recognizing and appropriating loan proceeds, debt service, and debt service reserve within the St. Johns County Fiscal Year 2024 Budget.

And last, to authorize the transfer of General Fund reserves, in an amount up to $50,000, for the transition and set-up of a temporary library branch in Hastings.

Details are at this link: Agenda Item 3

Agenda Item 4 – County-wide Vulnerability Assessment Presentation of Findings

This is a DRAFT presentation of the findings from this Vulnerability Assessment with the final report anticipated in March, 2024.

Presentation materials can be found here: Draft Vulnerability Assessment

Agenda Item 5 – North Ponte Vedra Beach nourishment update and Contract Award

“SJC Purchasing Division issued a formal Invitation for Bids (IFB #1677), in accordance with SJC Purchasing Policy, to complete the dredge beach restoration of North Ponte Vedra Beach, as specified. Bids were received on February 13, 2024, and the bid tabulation is provided as part of the presentation. Due to the size of the exhibits included in the Bid Documents, they are available upon request from SJC Purchasing. As part of the IFB, Bidders were able to provide bids on two Bid Options: Bid Option A, which provides for completion by or before 10/7/24; and Bid Option B, which provides for completion by or before 3/2/25, in order to provide maximum consideration for cost feasibility by completion time. Staff will issue a Notice of Intent, based upon Board’s approval/denial, which initiates the Protest Period. Provided no Protest is received, Staff will proceed based upon Board’s direction.”

Presentation materials are here: Agenda Item 5

Agenda Item 6 – 2353 State Road 13 North Venue & Events

This item is to appeal the Planning and Zoning Agency denial of a Special Use Permit to allow for indoor/outdoor wedding and special event venue.

The item had been on the agenda for Feb. 6 and was delayed to the 20^th. Details on the appeal are at this link: SR 13 Special Use Permit

Agenda Item 7 – Alternate Bald Eagle Management Plan for the Shiprek Palm Valley Properties

“Bald Eagle Nest SJ-38 is located on Tract A of the Plantation at Ponte Vedra Unit 5 that directly abuts the eastern portion of 4485B Palm Valley Road. This Bald Eagle nest has been confirmed active by St. Johns County since the 2007 nesting season. The properties proposed as part of this request are currently 4 lots of record as defined by Section 12 of the Land Development Code and therefore must adhere to Federal, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, regulations for the protection of the Bald Eagle. The federal regulations include a primary nest protection zone of 330′ and a secondary nest protection zone of 660′. The applicant desires to reconfigure the lots and add an additional lot which would render them no longer lots of record and therefore the full provisions of Section 4.01.10 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code would apply to development of these properties. This would include a 750′ primary nest protection zone and a 1500′ secondary nest protection zone. The request for a non-zoning variance is in accordance with Section 4.10.10.C.4 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code which states an alternative site specific Bald Eagle Management Plan may be development for a Bald Eagle nest when changes to the provisions of Section 4.01.10 are requested, subject to approval by the Board of County Commissioners. The applicant has obtained an approved Incidental Take Permit (ITP) MBPER0032532 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the construction no closer than 75 feet from the nest tree.”

Details about this request can be found here: Bald Eagle Management Plan

Agenda Item 8 – ML Conner Rezoning

Request to rezone .85 acres of land from Commercial Neighborhood to Residential Single Family. The property is located at 6297 and 6289 A1A S/6298 & 62288 Costanero Rd.

Agenda Item 9 – LAMP Riverdale CR 13/Atlantic Road property Phase II ESA report update and request for direction from the BOCC

This had been a much-debated LAMP purchase recommendation. A purchase was authorized in 2023. On November 21, 2023 the report to the Board included a concern that there may be environmental issues and an extension of the inspection period and closing date of the purchase was authorized along with authority to obtain a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment of the property.

Based on the results of the report, there are two options being presented Tuesday.

The first is to extend the inspection period and closing date. The second is to terminate the purchase agreement.

Details are here: LAMP Purchase Review

Agenda Item 10 – Appointments to the Housing Finance Authority

The Authority is made up of 7 members with “not less than a majority” knowledgeable in the following fields: commerce, labor, and finance.

There are 2 vacancies and 4 applications. Details are here: HFA Applicants

Agenda Item 11 – Appointments to the Health and Human Services Advisory Council

By statute, the Council is made up of 7 members including 5 professionals from the disciplines in the Health and Human Services and 2 at-large members including but not limited to areas such as business, banking and finance, education, law enforcement, community religious leaders, consumers and other interested parties in the general public.

There are 2 vacancies forHealth and Human Services Professionals and 12 applications. Details are here: HHSAC Applicants

Agenda Item 12 – Interim County Attorney Discussion

“At the February 6, 2024, BCC meeting, the Board of County Commissioners and the County Attorney agreed to separate effective February 9, 2024. The Deputy County Attorney is allowed to perform the duties of the County Attorney for no more than fourteen days without approval by the Board of County Commissioners per Ordinance 2003-64 Section 3. Additionally, the Board subsequently approved a motion authorizing the Chair and the County Administrator to enter into contract negotiations with Rich Komando of Bradley, Garrison & Komando, to serve as the Interim County Attorney. A draft contract will be presented for the Board’s review and consideration.”

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Summary of the February 6 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 11, 2024 by Beth Tate

The February 6, 2024 Board of County Commissioner’s meeting began with a Proclamation recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month. The proclamation was accepted by Greg White, Robert Nimmons, Chair of the West Augustine CRA Steering Committee, and Dwala Willis, Vice-Chair of the Steering Committee.

Mr. White gave an interesting acceptance speech worth listening to at this link: Greg White Acceptance Speech

The Second proclamation of the morning commemorated the Life and Legacy of Dr. Otis A. Mason. This proclamation was accepted by Pamela Mason, daughter of Dr. Mason. You can watch that presentation at this link: Dr. Otis Mason Proclamation

The Proclamation and Ms. Mason provides some interesting history of St. Johns County while covering the significant accomplishments of Dr. Mason. It’s well worth the watch.

Read more about Dr. Mason here: Dr. Otis Mason News Story

Public Safety Report

SJSO highlighted this is Teen Dating Violence awareness month and there are resources available through the Sheriff’s department. There was a fundraiser for Big Brother/Big Sisters Tuesday night. And Open Arms Recovery, an organization focused on supporting opioid addiction, is opening an office in St. Johns County in March to help combat the opioid crisis in St. Johns County.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue –highlighted the Rapid Intervention Team Competition in Orlando, January 11 – 12. Two teams from SJC made it to 1^st and 3^rd place overall in the competition.

Clerk of the Court Report included a warning about fraudulent calls to residents claiming the person has missed jury duty and a warrant has been issued for their arrest and demanding payment. This is not how it works. If someone misses jury duty, they are issued a summons by the Clerk of the court. Please contact the Clerk’s office at 904-819-3629 if you have received one of these phone calls.

Public Infrastructure Update

The Public Infrastructure Update focused on the community of Hastings. Watch the full presentation here: Hastings Infrastructure Update

Below are some key slides from the presentation.

Hastings Water Infrastructure Improvements

Repurpose Historic Hastings High School for First Coast Technical College

The Legislative Update was moved to the February 20 meeting to give more time to focus on the many items moving through the legislature now.

Consent Agenda

There was some movement of items on the Consent Agenda Tuesday.

Items 7 and 13 were moved to the Regular Agenda becoming (1a) and (1b) respectively.

As anticipated, during public comment on the Consent Agenda there was commentary about Consent Agenda Item 29, the separation agreement for County Attorney David Migut.

Read the Consent Agenda Item here: Consent Agenda Item 29

The Consent Agenda was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the dissenting vote.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Items 2 and 3 were continued to future dates.

The applicant for Agenda item 2 (Mills Creek Workforce Housing) asked to withdraw this item and continue to a time certain. Based on information provided by the Growth Management department this appears to be delayed because of information related to transportation. This was continued to March 5.

The applicant for Agenda Item 3 (Wedding Venue on CR 13) has also requested a continuance and this was continued to February 20.

The Regular Agenda was amended with those changes.

Agenda Item 1 – This was a request to designate the building at 165 Vilano Road as a Local Landmark.

Read the presentation here: 165 Vilano Road Landmark Designation

This item was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 1A – formerly consent agenda item 7 Consent Agenda Item 7

“The Board of County Commissioners has the authority to grant permissive use agreements for the temporary use of County owned property to property owners and/or their contractors. Property owners may request a permissive use agreement to utilize adjacent County property for access, staging and temporary storage to construct improvements or effect repairs to their property. Approval of this Resolution will authorize the County Administrator to execute the Non-Exclusive Permissive Use Agreement as necessary without further Board action, allowing greater flexibility for staff to coordinate the timing of the proposed use with minimal disruption to normal operations and/or typical public use of the property. St. Johns County Real Estate Division and the office of the County Attorney will draft and review all requests prior to issuing the Non-Exclusive Permissive Use Agreement.”

Commissioner Joseph had concerns that someone could take advantage of this agreement without some time parameters in place.

County Administrator Andrews indicated she thought the item was being pulled for a date in the future to give staff time to address the concern about time parameters.

By consensus the item was pulled from the agenda and will be brought back at a time in the future.

Agenda Item 1B – formerly consent agenda item 13 Consent Agenda Item 13

“For the past year, the Utility Department has been working to develop a career path for its staff. The career path is aimed at staff training, retention, development and growth. Over the past 3-5 years, the Utility has not been able to compete with regional, neighboring Utilities such as Clay County, JEA and Palm Coast and consequently lost several of its talents, especially within its technical space. Last year, the Utility initiated a career path for most of its maintenance and treatment plant operators. The program focused on establishing a highly-qualified, highly-trained technical and professional workforce by providing a sequence of training segments wherein employees could develop and grow in their position and be fairly compensated. The program has been a huge success with almost zero turnover. The Utility is now proposing to extend this program to all its remaining divisions. The Utility has also identified a few improvement areas within its organizational structure to consolidate some of its management positions. In the short-term, this proposal will require upgrades to certain positions, however, in the long-run these changes will provide tremendous savings to our operational budget. Funding needed for both, the career path and position upgrades (due to the re-organization) will be provided by existing vacancies, budgeted special pay, savings from budgeted capital vehicles and other budgeted line items that have surplus balances. Consequently, there will be NO FY 2024 budget increase. Over 90 utility department positions will benefit from this program. The Utility department currently serves over 57,500 water customer accounts with an FY 2024 operational budget of approximately $45 million. The Utility Capital Improvement plan for FY 2024 is approximately $280 million. Details of the budget transfers are attached.”

Commissioner Joseph indicated she wanted this to be discussed on the Regular Agenda to highlight good practices in the County budget.

This item was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 1C – was a “red folder” item seeking approval of a nonexclusive permissive use agreement on behalf of a Parks and Recreation contractor.

This was approved 5-1.

Agenda Item 4 is a Request for a Reconsideration or Waiver of One-Year Time Limit to Reapply for the Deer Run PUD.

What does that mean? The Deer Run PUD request was denied by the Board of County Commissioners on September 19, 2023. Under the Land Development code, the applicant cannot reapply for 1 year after the denial. The applicant is requesting the Board to either reconsider their denial or waive the one-year requirement. Deer Run PUD Request

This request was denied 5 -0

Agenda Item 5 – Proposed Ordinance Amendments for Special Care Housing

This is the first reading of an amendment to the LDC regarding Assisted Living Facilities. This comes at a request made at the September 19, 2023 Board of County Commissioners Meeting. Special Care Housing Ordinance Amendment

Proposed Assisted Living Facilities Ordinance Change

During public comment it appeared some were confusing Assisted Living Facilities with Affordable Housing. Commissioner Whitehurst asked for clarification that this was not about affordable housing. It was confirmed – this is Assisted Living, not Affordable Housing.

The proposed amendment was approved 5-0.

Agenda item 6 – Appointment to the Land Acquisition Management Program (LAMP)

Conservation Board. There is one vacancy on the Board because of the resignation of Jimmy Watson from District 3. There are 3 applications, Lauren Howington, George Spiegel, and Kevin Gamble. LAMP Appointees

After hearing dissenting public comment and much discussion at the Board, Lauren Howington was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote.

Watch the discussion/debate here: LAMP Board discussion

Agenda Item 7 – Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

There are 3 vacancies on the North Coastal Design Review Board created by 2 expired terms and an alternate member being appointed as a regular member. There are 3 applications, Sacha Martin, Linda LaCerva, and William Morton.

All 3 applicants were approved unanimously.

Agenda Item 8 – Appointment to the Tourist Development Council

Under Saint Johns County Ordinances, 2 elected municipal officials must serve on the council. This is a request to have St. Augustine Beach City Mayor Dylan Rumrell appointed as the representative for St. Augustine Beach. TDC Appointment

There was some interesting debate about the appointment of Mayor Rumrell. The requirement is that there be 2 municipal officers. The representative from St. Augustine Beach had been former Mayor Donald Samora. The City Manager submitted a letter recommending new Mayor Dylan Rumrell replace Donald Samora on the TDC.

Commissioner Joseph raised concerns that there is a conflict of interest because Mayor Rumrell is head of the Ampitheater who hosts Sing Out Loud and TDC dollars are often allocated to Sing Out Loud.

After hearing public comment echoing similar concerns, Mayor Rumrell spoke and indicated he would recuse himself whenever there was a conflict of interest.

The appointment was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote.

Public Comment

During Public Comment, many residents spoke out about the potential move of the historic Canright House from it’s current location to Windswept Acres Park. It appeared this move was a surprise to many local residents.

This item was first brought to the County Commissioners for review in August of 2022. During Commissioners reports on that date, Commissioner Waldron asked for information related to a letter from the St. Johns County Cultural Resource Review Board asking the Canright Houses be identified as a significant structure associated with the Civil Rights Movement. After discussion, the Commissioners approved a letter of support from the Board and to have staff research the potential relocation of the structure from 5480 Atlantic View to Windswept Acres Park. Minutes are here: Board Minutes for the first mention of saving the Canright House

There was more discussion on this topic during Commissioner’s Reports.

Commissioner’s reports

Commissioner Whitehurst began with asking for some clarification on items mentioned during public comment. One item was that the Board had at some time voted to not include Public Comment in the recorded minutes of the meetings. Commissioner Whitehurst did not recall such a vote and asked Administrator Andrews if she had recollection of such a vote. She did not. With further discussion it was clarified that neither recalled any direction to the Clerk of the Court in how to record the minutes.

His second clarification was about the movement of the Canright House. He recalled that perhaps 2 years ago, Commissioner Waldron had seen something about the preservation of the home. He recalled some discussion about bringing this back on a future agenda and there had been a handful of people who had expressed support for moving the house. He noted now they are hearing opposition to the move.

Administrator Andrews shared that they were doing a Public Meeting on Thursday, February 8^th from 5 – 6 to discuss all the facts related to the house. She shared that Commissioner Waldron had been very supportive of saving the building but was concerned about funding the move. The Parks Foundation was able to secure a little over $400,000 from the state to cover the cost of the relocation. The Parks Foundation came back to the Board and received unanimous approval to move forward with the move.

Commissioner Joseph asked if another location could be found for the move of the Canright House. She also asked to look at other counties to see how they take public record and what the do online. She also shared that She will be doing a listening hour at the Ponte Vedra Beach Library on March 26^th at 5:30 PM.

Commissioner Alaimo recognized the St. Johns County Teacher of the Year, Tina Hemby, and the Rookie Teacher of the Year, Aimee Monie. He also highlighted the community meeting on the Canright home on Thursday and is continuing to meet with residents who are concerned about the Shore Drive Trail. There is a Community Meeting on the Shore Drive Trail scheduled for February 14, 5:00 PM at the Southeast Branch Library.

After thanking David Migut for his service as attorney, Commissioner Alaimo made a motion to bring in an external counsel to serve as interim County Attorney while they are recruiting to replace Mr. Migut. He recommended Rich Kommando, who currently serves as the Housing Finance Authority Counsel for the County. His rationale was to have an outside view from someone who does not want the position full time.

During Board discussion about this motion, Commissioner Joseph recommended placing Christine Valliere in the interim role. Mr. Lex Taylor was also recommended as being able to fill the interim role.

A motion was made to authorize the chair and the county administrator to work toward an interim contract for county attorney. The motion was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Commissioner Whitehurst commended the Public Works Department for the 1000’ extension of the west bound turn lane on Race Track Road at Veterans Parkway. It greatly improved the safety on that section of Race Track Road.

Commissioner Dean brought up the conference on Beach Preservation where he will be giving the welcoming remarks at the Embassy Suites where the beach renourishment project is just about to get under way.

County Administrator’s report

Administrator Andrews requested a letter of support from the Board for the request to locate the Black History Museum in St. Johns County.

She also provided an update on the lawsuit involving the Clerk of the Court. The County has received a notice from the court that an order of dismissal due to the former IG not responding to the suit.

Additionally, she shared that there are 3 Joint Town Hall meetings to cover the Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Plan update.

Upcoming meetings will be:

Feb. 20, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Pacetti Bay Middle School Auditorium, 245 Meadowlark Lane
Feb. 21, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Southeast Branch Library, 6670 US 1 South
Feb. 22, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North

Ms. Andrews also expressed appreciation to the board for approving the Publix incentive. She wanted to clarify that this was not an expenditure of taxpayer funds but operates like a rebate. Publix is investing $145 million in the county. The incentive dollars are a rebate back in the amount of $5 million that will help fund that $145 Million investment that is bringing jobs and long term tax revenue to the county.

County Attorney’s Report

Thank you to the Board members and all county employees he has worked with.

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BOCC, St. Johns County

What’s Ahead at the February 6, 2024 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 3, 2024 by Beth Tate

The February 6, 2024 Board of County Commissioner’s meeting will open with 2 Proclamations. The first recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month and the second commemorating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Otis A. Mason.

Read more about Dr. Mason here: News coverage of Dr. Mason

Consent Agenda

One item of interest in the Consent Agenda is Item 29, the separation agreement for County Attorney David Migut. It appears this is a “mutual separation.” David Migut separation item. Coming on the heels of legal concerns at the Board of County Commissioners and a lawsuit filed by Commissioner Joseph against the other 4 Commissioners, we can expect to see some commentary about this item.

A second item of interest is Consent Agenda item 31, an Economic Development Agreement with Publix Super Markets. Publix Economic Development Agreement

Publix anticipates creating initially 118 new jobs, expanding to 400 jobs over a nine year period. The Board has previously approved a 9 year incentive request on ad valorem taxes in the amount of $5,821,779. This item is the execution of the formal agreement regarding that incentive.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Item 2 is a hearing for a rezoning application for the Mills Workforce Housing to be located off Lewis Speedway. This was recommended for denial by the PZA with a split vote of 3-3.

Full presentation is here: Agenda Item 2

Agenda Item 3 is an appeal of a Planning and Zoning Agency denial of a Special Use Permit for an event space at 3253 State Road 13 North. This project was denied by the PZA on November 2, 2023 and the applicant is requesting the Board overturn that denial. This project was originally approved by the PZA in March of 2022. Because the applicant did not commence the project within one year of the approval, they had to return to the PZA for approval in 2023. At that meeting it was denied. Thus the applicant is coming forward with their appeal.

The full Presentation is here: 3253 State Road 13 North project

Agenda Item 4 is a Request for a Reconsideration or Waiver of One-Year Time Limit to Reapply for the Deer Run PUD.

Agenda Item 5 – Proposed Ordinance Amendments for Special Care Housing

Agenda item 6 – Appointment to the Land Acquisition Management Program (LAMP)

Agenda Item 7 – Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

Full package is here: Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

Location of the North Coastal Overlay District

Agenda Item 8 – Appointment to the Tourist Development Council

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BOCC, St. Johns County

Summary of the January 16th St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on January 21, 2024January 21, 2024 by Beth Tate

Here’s a high level view of what happened last week!

The morning started with two Proclamations. The first Proclamation was to recognize 100 Years of the St. Augustine Art Association and was presented by Commissioner Whitehurst. Founded January 18, 1924 it is the 13^th oldest continually operating Art Association in the United States. The Art Association operates free of charge and has 10,000 visitors annually.

You can learn more about the Art Association at this link: St. Augustine Art Association

The second proclamation of the morning was to recognize Patti Greenough Day. Do you know who Patti Greenough is?

Patti became CEO of EPIC Behavioral Healthcare in 1990. Over the last 33 years she has expanded it from one campus, 14 staff and a $300,00 budget to a multi-behavior healthcare delivery service with 6 campuses across multiple counties, 130 staff and a multimillion dollar budget. Under her leadership they opened a 16 bed critical inpatient detox and residential treatment center to St. Johns county and established other much needed critical substance abuse and mental health disorder programs and services.

Learn more about Epic Behavioral Care and the work Patti has led at this link: EPIC Behavioral Health

Public Safety Update

Director Scott Beaver from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office focused his report on traffic. While we have sadly had 3 fatalities already this year, in the 2023 statistics we have had a continued drop in traffic incidents overall by 15%. Serious bodily injury incidents dropped by 15% and fatalities dropped by 14%. The Sheriff will continue his aggressive approach to traffic safety and DUI enforcement.

Chief McGhee from St. Johns County Fire Rescue thanked the Commissioners for the 2 new Fire Engines put into service in the West Augustine King Street Area and the Pine Island station.

Clerk of the Court Brandon Patty highlighted that through aggressive money management, the comptroller has generated over $20 Million in earned interest in the 2023 calendar year.

Scott Teckler from Legislative Affairs presented on several bills to watch in the upcoming Legislative session. Slides below detail the bills.

Mr. Teckler recommended the county draft formal opposition to the Community -Based Child Welfare Agencies bill as it would have negative fiscal impact on St. Johns county as well as negative impact on needed child welfare services in the county.

Motion to draft the formal opposition was approved 5-0.

The Consent Agenda was approve with no further discussion or public comment.

Regular Agenda

County Attorney Migut made a recommendation to pull Agenda Item 15 from the Regular Agenda because litigation has been filed and this matter should not be discussed in public at this time.

Because this was a ministerial motion, no public comment was allowed.

What is a ministerial motion? “A duty or act is defined as a ministerial when there is no room for the exercise of discretion and the performance being required is directed by law.” (reference link: https://criminaldefenseattorneytampa.com/appeals/writ-of-mandamus/)

Motion to approve was passed 4:1 (Joseph being the no vote.)

Agenda item 1 – Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service, Inc. Economic Development Incentive Request

This property is located in an area that is designated Industrial on the Future Land Use Map, and was rezoned to that designation at the November 21st Board of county Commissioner’s Meeting, Agenda Item 5.

Previous Blog Post Covering Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service Project

The request on January 16 was for an economic development incentive of $118,784 as they complete the project that was approved in the November 21^st meeting. It was not to approve the project to be built.

“The St. Johns County Economic Development Agency has received an application from Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service, Inc. for economic development incentives to develop a total of 32,000 square feet of space located near the intersection of US 1 and International Golf Parkway. The Applicant is a construction equipment merchant primarily selling machinery and parts required to conduct vital agricultural and manufacturing operations, as well as sales of associated parts and services. This project will serve as a regional headquarters for the business. After the Applicant submitted their application, they subsequently withdrew their request for confidentiality. The project scored 5.5 points under the new industry category of the County’s Business Incentive Program, which makes it eligible for expedited permitting and an economic development grant of up to 50% of fees paid to the County by the Applicant (impact fees and water/sewer connection fees), two years ad valorem taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion) on capital improvements and two years tangible personal property taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion). Completion of the project is anticipated by the third quarter of 2025. With this schedule, the first annual grant payment would be anticipated during FY27. The total estimated value of the incentive is $118,784. In accordance with Program requirements, the Agency is required to review the application and make a written report to the Board of County Commissioners. Staff recommends support of this incentive application.”

Project Descriptions:

Discussion at the Board and in public comment indicated that people were confused about this Agenda item. Concerns were raised about the location of the project and whether it was appropriate to build this project.

Commissioner Whitehurst emphasized during Board discussion that this is for an economic incentive approval, not to approve the project. The project will be built whether they approve the incentives or not.

The Incentive package was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote.

Agenda Item 2 – 2024 Roadway and Transportation Alternatives List of Priority Projects (LOPP)

Annually the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) request project priorites from local governments for potential funding in FDOT’s Work Program. There is a Transportation Advisory Group in St. Johns County made up of representatives from local municipalities and concerned citizen’s groups. Assistant Director of Growth Management, Dick D’Souza presented the priority list for approval by the commissioners.

You can watch the presentation by Mr. D’Souza at this link: LOPP Presentation

Note the Sidewalks to Schools list comes from the School Board and is unchanged from 2023.

Commissioner Whitehurst raised a question about the list of Trails. Representative Stevenson had made a request to move the Orangedale to Mickler Trail up on the list. It is currently #5 in the Priority list.

Commissioner Whitehurst also noted that he was recently selected as Chairman of the TPO and invited the public to attend the meetings to hear the discussions about funding of transportation projects. The public is able to ask questions.

Commissioner Whitehurst made the motion to approve the list with the amendment of moving the Orangedale to Mickler Trail to the top 3. This was approved 5-0

The slides may be difficult to read. You can read the full presentation at this link: LOPP Presentation Materials

Agenda Item 3 – Establishment of the Greenbriar CDD

This establishes the CDD for the Greenbriar Helow PUD. Those who are not currently residents of a CDD may not understand the purpose and structure of a CDD.

Purpose of CDDs is explained in this request:

PLANNING DEPARTMENT REVIEW

Florida Statutes Chapter 190 and Part 5.06.00 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code govern procedures, approval and implementation of a Community Development District (CDD). Section 5.06.01 of the Land Development Code provides the intent of a CDD within St. Johns County is to encourage a strong commitment to capital facilities planning, management and financing to ensure the provision of adequate capital infrastructure to serve projected growth without overburdening the general taxpayer. The intent of Florida Statutes Chapter 190 is similar. The Greenbriar CDD proposes to fund improvements to roadways, stormwater, site amenities, landscaping, irrigation, and water/sewer. The Petitioner also requests the County consent to powers to finance, fund, plan, establish, acquire, construct, reconstruct, enlarge or extend, equip, operate and maintain systems and facilities for parks and facilities for indoor and outdoor recreational, cultural, and educational uses, and security, including but not limited to guardhouses, fences and gates, electronic intrusion-detection systems, and patrol cars, as authorized and described in Section 190.012(2), Florida Statutes.

By establishing a CDD, the infrastructure is funded by the property owners within that CDD boundary and not by the general taxpayer across the county.

You can read the full presentation here: Agenda Item 3 – CDD

This was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 4 – Sandy Creek PUD Modification

“Request for a Major Modification to the Sandy Creek PUD (ORD. 2003-67, as amended) to add a secondary access to CR 210; to remove all the currently allowed industrial entitlements; to add additional multi-family and single family units; and to revise the Master Development Plan (MDP) text and map. The Sandy Creek PUD is located on the south side of CR 210 at Sandy Creek Parkway and CR 210.”

“The applicant is requesting a Major Modification to the Sandy Creek PUD (Ordinance 2003-67, as Amended) to do the following: – Add a secondary access to CR 210 by constructing a road off-site connecting Sandy Creek Parkway to Moon Bay Parkway to provide access to a signalized intersection at CR 210. – Remove all currently allowed Light Industrial entitlements (487,000 square feet) – Subdivide the 128.02 acre Light Industrial parcel into two parcels o 36.18 acres will have 310 multi-family units (115 to be transferred from the current multifamily parcel, and 190 new multi-family units) o 92.81 acres will have up to 74 additional single family homes – Subdivide the 50.78 acre multi-family parcel (currently approved into two parcels) o 30.51 acres of the multi-family parcel will remain multi-family, and the allowed entitlements will be reduced from 465 to 320 o 20.27 acres remaining will become a passive park subject to a conservation easement – Revise the MDP text and Map to reflect these changes and areas of new development”

This modification increases the overall dwelling uits from 818 to 1,082 and removes 487,000 sq feet of light industrial entitlements.

This PUD was originally approved in 2003 and has been modified over the years.

Questions were raised about the impact on schools. Commissioner Whitehurst confirmed with County Administrator Andrews the discussion from the recent joint School Board/County Commissioners Meeting that the School Board does have an opportunity to approve or deny the Proportionate Share Agreements. If the School Board denies the Proportionate Share Agreements, the proposal does not move forward to the Board of County Commissioners for approval.

After Commissioner Dean made a motion to approve, Commissioner Whitehurst asked if the applicant would agree to delay construction of the new units until aver the six lane improvements are finished and the second entrance is activated.

The applicant had verbiage prepared that would not go above 383 units until the completion of the six lane expansion fo CR 210 from Trinity Way to Beach Walk Blvd. or 18 months from the date of the Board of County Commissioners approving this modification.

The motion was amended to include those conditions and approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Read the details here: Sandy Creek PUD

Agenda Items 5 & 6 – 4400 South Francis

“Request to rezone approximately 28.37 acres of land from Open Rural (OR) to Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow for approximately 100,000 square feet and allow for Community Commercial uses, which also include, the sales, rental, service, repair and storage of vehicles including new or used automobiles, recreational vehicles, boats and related watercraft, motorcycles and residentially scaled farm and garden equipment. Residential uses are not allowed. The property is approximately 28.37 acres and located at 4400 South Francis Road. This application is companion to CPA(SS) 2023-04. The Planning and Zoning recommended approval with a 5-2 vote at its regular December 7 meeting, with Dr. Hilsenbeck and Ms. Spiegel dissenting.”

There were several interesting slides in this presentation.

Proposed development area bottom right in relations to existing and approved commercial

After public comment and Board discussion, there was a motion from Commissioner Arnold to deny the request and that passed 5-0.

Agenda Item 9 – Second Reading of Proposed Amendments to St. Johns county Ordinance – Beach Code

This was the second reading of proposed changes that are covered in these slides:

The Ordinance changes were approved 5-0

Agenda Item 10 – Second Reading of the St. Johns County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee

This update brings the make-up of the Committee Membership in line with Florida Statutory requriements. At the First Reading Commissioner Joseph objected to the requirements and voted against accepting the change. She again voted no to bringing this county ordinance in compliance with the Florida Statutes. It was approved 4-1.

Agenda Item 11 – Second Reading St. Johns County Golf Cart Ordinance

This Ordinance update was to bring the County Ordinance in line with the updated Florida Statutes (championed by Representative Cyndi Stevenson in 2023.) The update requires drivers of a golf cart who are under the age of 18 to have a valid Learner’s Permit or Driver’s license and anyone over the age of 18 to have a valid government issued ID.

This passed 5-0

Commisioner’s Reports

Commissioners’ Reports

Commissioner Joseph thanked Fresh Market for recently sending sandwiches to an event and thanked Joy Andrews for helping to reschedule games at Davis Park for a large soccer tournament impacted by the heavy storms over the weekend. She will be holding a town hall in Ponte Vedra sometime in March. She also asked that the public keep two Navy Seals lost at sea in their thoughts and prayers.

Commissioner Alaimo attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the PAL (Police Athletic League) Sports Complex. The 37 acre complex in Elkton will be able to handle a variety of sports events.

Commissioner Whitehurst asked for Board consensus to ask staff to study the feasibility of incorporating the inclusion of golf cart paths in the intersection improvements already approved by the Legislature. He also asked for additional “Do Not Block the Intersection” signs to be added at CR 210 and east I-95. He also made a motion to waive event fees when the Park Foundation meets to raise monies for parks. The motion carried 5-0.

Commission Dean shared that 40 years ago, almost to the hour, in 1984 he completed negotiations for the acquisition of Guana River Preserve for roughly $48 million.

Chairman Arnold honored the loss of Dr. Pat Laurenelle, who was a champion for libraries in the county, and died on Dec. 27, 2023, at age 100.

Attorney’s Report – In the matter of Krista Joseph v. St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners and State’s Attorney R. J. Larizza, he will schedule an Executive Session of the Board of County Commissioners. The subject matter will the specifically the litigation and held in full compliance with Florida law. Commissioner Alaimo asked if she would be in attendance at the meeting. Attorney Migut is in conversation with her attorney on that matter.

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BOCC, St. Johns County

What’s Ahead on the January 16, 2024 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on January 14, 2024 by Beth Tate

Plan now for the January 16, 2024 BOCC Meeting

In the regular updates for the BOCC meeting Tuesday there are 2 proclamations; the first to recognize 100 years of the St. Augustine Art Association and the second to recognize Patti Greenough Day.

Public Comment is time certain at 11:30 and we can expect some lively public comment on Tuesday. Why? Because of Regular Agenda Item 15. This item is for the Commissioners to hear the result of outside counsel’s investigation into whether or not Commissioner Krista Joseph violated Florida statutes in the December 5, 2023 County Commissioner’s Meeting.

Since the County’s receipt of the letter from outside counsel, Commissioner Joseph has filed a Federal lawsuit against the other 4 Commissioners and the Florida State’s Attorney, R. J. Larizza.

Because of the open litigation, Agenda Item 15 is now slated to be pulled from the agenda according to to a Press Release received on Friday (content below.)

Prior to this Press Release, supporters of Commissioner Joseph had begun encouraging residents to attend and speak up in support of Commissioner Joseph. We can expect that, even though the Agenda item is intended to be pulled, the supporters will still be present to speak during General Public Comment.

I cannot find the Press Release on the County website but am sharing the content here.

The Chair of the County Commissioners has also released a statement in response to the lawsuit filed by Commissioner Joseph. See links below.

Press Release on Agenda Item 15

St. Johns County Attorney’s Office Intends to Request Board of County Commissioners Approval to Pull Item 15 on Commissioner Conduct from the January 16 Regular Meeting

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Florida, January 12, 2024 – On January 12, 2024, the County Attorney’s Office for the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) announced their intention to ask the BOCC on Tuesday, January 16 to pull Item 15 on a presentation from outside counsel to provide a legal analysis related to commissioner conduct from the Regular Agenda as originally posted for time certain at 1 p.m. and subsequently request a special “shade meeting” to discuss the item to be held at a later date as permitted by Section 286.011(8), of the Florida Statutes.

The background information on item 15 is:

***THE FOLLOWING ITEM IS TIME CERTAIN AT 1:00 PM*** Presenter: Raymond Treadwell, Esq., Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC Staff Member: David Migut, County Attorney 15. Outside Counsel Presentation. At the December 5, 2023 Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Board passed a motion that included retaining outside counsel to provide a legal analysis related to commissioner conduct. On December 7, 2023, the County entered into an agreement with Raymond Treadwell, Esquire, Shareholder with Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC for such services. Mr. Treadwell has provided a written legal opinion and will present his findings to the Board.

Section 286.011(8), Florida Statutes, provides a limited exception to this general openness requirement and makes litigation strategy or settlement meetings private when they are held between a board and its attorney and the board is a party before a court or administrative agency. The statute limits the persons who may attend such a meeting, the subject of any such meeting, and the length of time the record of the meeting may be kept closed. The records of the meeting become public at the conclusion of litigation. The statute provides:

“(8) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), any board or commission of any state agency or authority or any agency or authority of any county, municipal corporation, or political subdivision, and the chief administrative or executive officer of the governmental entity, may meet in private with the entity’s attorney to discuss pending litigation to which the entity is presently a party before a court or administrative agency, provided that the following conditions are met:
(a) The entity’s attorney shall advise the entity at a public meeting that he or she desires advice concerning the litigation.
(b) The subject matter of the meeting shall be confined to settlement negotiations or strategy sessions related to litigation expenditures.
(c) The entire session shall be recorded by a certified court reporter. The reporter shall record the times of commencement and termination of the session, all discussion and proceedings, the names of all persons present at any time, and the names of all persons speaking. No portion of the session shall be off the record. The court reporter’s notes shall be fully transcribed and filed with the entity’s clerk within a reasonable time after the meeting.
(d) The entity shall give reasonable public notice of the time and date of the attorney client session and the names of persons who will be attending the session. The session shall commence at an open meeting at which the persons chairing the meeting shall announce the commencement and estimated length of the attorney client session and the names of the persons attending. At the conclusion of the attorney client session, the meeting shall be reopened, and the person chairing the meeting shall announce the termination of the session.
(e) The transcript shall be made part of the public record upon conclusion of the litigation.”

End Press Release Content

Link to Agenda Item 15: Agenda Item 15

Link to Commissioner Joseph’s lawsuit: Joseph Federal Lawsuit

Link to Commissioner Arnold’s statement: BOCC Chair Statement on lawsuit

Consent Agenda Items

There are 40 items on the Consent Agenda for Tuesday. Many of them are Final Plat approvals for developments or approval of Utility Easement Agreements.

Regular Agenda Items:

Agenda Item 1 – Vermeer Southeast Sales & Services, Inc. Economic Development Incentive Request.

This item is to review an application for economic development incentives in the amount of $118,784. Vermeer Southeast Sales & Services is a construction equipment business serving agricultural and manufacturing operations. This project would establish their regional headquarters in St. Johns County.

Read the presentation here: Agenda Item 1

Agenda Item 2 –2024 Roadway and Transportation Alternatives List of Priority Projects (LOPP)

Each year FDOT and the North Florida Transportation Planning organization request projects from local governments for potential funding through FDOT’s Work Program. This is important to our infrastructure because this is when we as a county prioritize the roadway and transportation projects that need funded.

The county has a Transportation Advisory Group consisting of County staff, City Staff, St. Augustine Beach staff, The School District, the Sheriff’s Office, and the Airport Authority as well as some of the civic organizations in the county. This group met November 17 to review the list that is being presented on the 16th.

Read the full presentation and list here: Priority Projects

There is a long list of projects; some key areas noted include SR 16 from IGP to SR 312, CR 2209 from SR 9B to SR 16, Palm Valley Road from ICW to Mickler Road, the SR 312 Extension from SR 207 to US1, and a feasibility study for new orad and interchange with I-95 at Big Oak Road.

Agenda Item 3 – Petition to create the Greenbriar CDD to serve the Greenbriar Helow Planned Unit Development (PUD)

Many of us who move to Florida from other states are not familiar with the concept of CDDs. Here the CDDs are used to “fund improvements to roadways, stormwater, site amenities, landscaping, irrigation, and water/sewer.” In this methodology, only the residents of that CDD are paying for these services that may otherwise be funded out of general tax revenues for the county.

This agenda item is to approve the structure and funding of the CDD for this portion of the Greenbriar Helow community to be constructed in the future.

Full presentation at this link: Agenda Item 3

Agenda Item 4 – Sandy Creek PUD

This is a request to modify an existing PUD, Sandy Creek, to add a secondary access to CR 210, remove the allowed industrial entitlements and add multi-family and single family units. The Sandy Creek PUD is located on the south side of CR 210 at Sandy Creek Parkway and CR 210. The Planning and Zoning Agency heard this request on December 7, 2023. A split vote of 3 – 3 meant a recommended technical denial.

Read the presentation here: Agenda Item 4

Agenda Items 5 and 6 – 4400 South Francis

These two items are a request for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to amend the Future Land Use Map from Rural/Silviculture to Mixed Use District and to rezone from Open Rural to Planned Unit Development to allow for commercial uses on 23.7 acres of land located at 4400 South Francis Road (World Golf Village area.)

Links to materials are here: Agenda item 5 and Agenda Item 6

Agenda Item 7 – Baker Property Rezoning

This is a request to rezone 3.07 acres of land at 1020, 1040, & 1060 State Road 16 from Open Rural and Commercial Intensive to Commercial Intensive. The PZA unanimously recommended approval.

Materials are here: Agenda Item 7

Agenda Item 8 – 4656 First Avenue rezoning

This request is to rezone approximately .34 acres of land from Commercial General (CG) to Residential,Single Family (RS-3), located at 4656 First Avenue. This property is located in the Airport District.

Materials are here: Agenda Item 8

Agenda Item 9 – Second Reading of the St. Johns County Beach Code revisions

This is the second reading of the Beach Code revisions that were presented at the November 7, 2023 Commissioner’s Meeting.

Current materials are here: Beach Code Ordinance Update

Agenda Item 10 – Second Reading of the proposed amendment to the St. Johns County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Ordinance

This is the second reading of the updates to the required make-up of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Ordinance. This brings the ordinance in line with updated Florida Statute requirements.

Materials are here: AHAC Ordinance Update

Agenda Item 11 – Second reading of the Golf Cart, Low Speed Vehicles and Mini Trucks ordinance

This is the second reading of the updated county ordinance related to Golf Cars, Low Speed Vehicles and Mini Trucks. This brings the county ordinance in line with the revised state statute that went into effect in 2023.

Materials here: Golf Cart Ordinance

Agenda Item 12 – Appointment of a St. Johns County Representative to the Northeast Florida Regional Council

Have you heard of the Northeast Florida Regional Council? There are 10 Regional Councils in Florida, established by statute in 1977. St. Johns County is represented by a County Commissioner on the Regional Council. This item is to appoint a new representative to the Council.

Learn more about the council here:

Northeast Florida Regional Council

Agenda Item 13 – Appointments to the South Anastasia Design Review Board

This is interesting because there is an apparent lack of resident interest in the South Anastasia Design Review Board. There are 4 vacancies on the Review Board because of expired terms.

“Some of these vacancies have been advertised multiple times since their occurrence, with the latest vacancy advertisement being placed in January 2023. Please note due to lack of a quorum, the South Anastasia Design Review
Board (SADRB) has been unable to meet. In light of not being able to obtain a quorum, staff is requesting a waiver from Board Policy Rule 2.202.C to make the appointments without recommendations from SADRB.”

What is the South Anastasia Design Review Board? From the County website:

“Purpose: The purpose of the South Anastasia Design Review Board is to protect and preserve the “Old Florida” style, rural beach community in the South Anastasia Overlay District and achieve specific goals and objective of the St. Johns County Comprehensive Plan. The Design Review Board’s (DRB) primary responsibility is to determine compliance with Part 3.07.00 South Anastasia Overlay of the St. Johns County Land Development Code, Ordinance 99-51, as amended.General Qualifications: Applicants serving as Alternate members will have voting privileges only in the absence of one or more regular members. Applicants must reside within the South Anastasia Overlay District. Members serve a term of four (4) years.”

Check out this map to see if you live in the South Anastasia Overlay District – be part of the decisions going forward!

iMap South Anastasia Island Overlay District

Agenda Item 14 – Appointments to the Ponte Vedra Zoning & Adjustment Board

After the recent vote on the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club PUD, 3 members of the Ponte Vedra Zoning & Adjustment Board (PVZAB) resigned. One other member’s term expired so there are 4 vacancies. The member who’s term expired has re-applied.

Materials and recommendations are here: Agenda item 14

Agenda Item 15 – Outside Counsel Presentation

See above information about Agenda Item 15.

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